1. ropes or cables stretched along a ship’s yard or boom to support the sails
Usage: nautical; plural form

Examples

• The crew secured the jackstays before hoisting the mainsail.
• Strong winds put extra strain on the jackstays during the storm.
• The sailor climbed along the jackstays to repair the torn sail.
• Regular inspection of jackstays is essential for safe sailing.
• The old jackstays needed replacement after years of salt water exposure.
• Modern yachts use synthetic materials for their jackstays instead of traditional rope.